Dentist Dr Philip Friel runs a private clinic in Hyndland, Glasgow, and is clinical director of Scottish Dental Care Group, a growing group of NHS dental clinics across Scotland. His main areas of interest lie in cosmetic dentistry and dental implantology

The smile is one of the most important features of anyone’s face.

A smile can define an individual, their moods, feelings and emotions, that’s why the maintenance of the teeth is vital to ensure the smile remains as natural and youthful as possible.

Regular dental examinations, hygienist appointments and brushing twice daily will ensure the teeth and gums are healthy and well maintained.

It goes without saying that factors which may reduce health or increase the risks of cancer – cigarette smoking, increased alcohol consumption and poor oral hygiene – will all detract from a beautiful smile.

Over time, the teeth can age and the natural beauty of a smile can be reduced but there are many aspects of dentistry that can help to improve and maintain the teeth.

One of the most common cosmetic dental improvements is tooth whitening.

This can be carried out gently and minimally invasively to allow a lightening of the natural teeth and an improvement in the smile. Another way of improving the appearance of teeth is composite bonding, which involves small tooth-coloured additions being added to the existing tooth structure in order to alter the shape.

Short-term orthodontics like invisalign can also be used by general dentists in order to make small adjustments to tooth position and orientation.

For more involved orthodontic requirements, a specialist orthodontist should always be consulted.

Composite resin restorations are used commonly where fillings are required. In addition, this material can be used to replace ageing or failing silver amalgam fillings in order to provide a more aesthetic solution.

Ceramics can be used throughout the mouth in the form of inlays, onlays, crowns and veneers in order to allow cosmetic rehabilitation or improvement of the smile.

The first dental implant was placed back in 1965 and tireless advancements mean that dental implant treatment is now very successful.

In short, there are lots of ways you can ensure your smile stays fresh and youthful.